Princeton Review ranks UST School of Law tops for “Quality of Life” among students
The University of St. Thomas School of Law has been ranked the No. 1 law school in the country for “Best Quality of Life” among students, according to the Princeton Review’s newly published book, The Best 159 Law Schools.
“Many, many people have worked hard to make this a vibrant, respectful and inclusive community,” said Dean Thomas Mengler. “It’s wonderful to hear our students confirm that they are growing as individuals as they are learning to become outstanding lawyers.”
The ranking is based on the Princeton Review's surveys of students attending the schools profiled in the books and on institutional data it obtained from the schools. The company surveyed 15,000 law school students, asking them to rate their schools on several topics and report on their experiences at them.
The two-page profile of the St. Thomas School of Law in The Best 159 Law Schools praises the rigorous but respectful debate that is common in classrooms and describes St. Thomas as a “… spirited (and spiritual) campus.” The profile states that “While ‘students are not shy about expressing differing opinions,’ the whole community maintains an attitude that is respectful and collegial.” The commentary also applauds St. Thomas for its beautiful campus, the connection to the Twin Cities bench and bar, and the downtown Minneapolis location.
Students responding to the survey also gave faculty high marks for being interesting and accessible, and for their dedication to students. One student wrote, “The faculty members with whom I have had contact are not only brilliant scholars and exceptional teachers, but they also care deeply about the students they teach.”
Princeton Review lists the top 10 schools in 11 different categories ranging from best academics to best career prospects. In other rankings, the University of Chicago was ranked No. 1 for “Best Overall Academic Experience,” Northwestern University received top marks for “Best Career Prospects” and Yale was “Toughest to Get Into.”
The rankings were posted last night on the Princeton Review’s Web site.